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executive director
/ˌɛɡ.zɪˈkjuː.tɪv dɪˈrɛk.tər/
senior company leader
The executive director approved the new budget.
The top manager authorized the financial plan.
Business
formal
A senior manager responsible for the day-to-day operations of a company or organization.
She was promoted to executive director last year.
She was advanced to the role of senior operational leader.
In many jurisdictions, this title is legally equivalent to a member of the board of directors who also holds a management position.
Business
formal
The chief administrator of a non-profit organization, equivalent to a CEO in a for-profit company.
The executive director of the charity oversees all fundraising efforts.
The head of the non-profit manages all money-raising activities.
Commonly used in NGOs, charities, and educational institutions.
Collocations
appoint an executive directorhire a senior leaderresign as executive directorquit the top management role
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Distinguish from CEO
Use 'Executive Director' primarily for non-profits or when referring to a board member with operational duties. Use 'CEO' for for-profit corporations.
Gold Rule
Capitalization
Capitalize 'Executive Director' only when it precedes a name (e.g., Executive Director Jane Doe) or refers to a specific unique role in a document. Lowercase when used generally (e.g., the executive director of the firm).
Word Origin
From 'executive' (having the power to execute or carry out) and 'director' (one who directs or guides). The compound emerged in corporate governance to distinguish operational leaders from non-executive board members.
Usage Notes
In the UK and Commonwealth countries, 'Executive Director' often refers to a senior employee who is also a board member. In the US, it is frequently used in non-profits instead of 'CEO'.
Word Breakdown
executive
having the power to execute or carry out; relating to management
rootdirector
a person who manages or guides an organization
rootEnglish Dictionary